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In 2010, online magazine TopSpeed pitted two Japanese rally cars against each other to determine which is better when it comes to track performance. The Subaru WRX STI and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X have been fierce competitors for several years now; the Mitsubishi has always gotten the lead in terms of speed, handling, and driving experience, not to mention sales. With the tenth version release of the Lancer Evolution comes another battle; let’s take a look at TopSpeed’s battle results. Engine vs. Engine The new Evo X is equipped with a 295 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine connected to a 5-speed manual transmission, while the WRX has a 304 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter Boxer engine (also four-cylinder) connected to a six-speed manual gearbox. The Subaru generates its horsepower at 6400 rpm and 311 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. How can a little thing produce so much power? Well, it’s because of its bigger intercooler and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams. The WRX can go from zero to sixty miles per hour in just 4.9 seconds. On the other hand, the Evo’s engine has gotten 28 pounds lighter from the previous version, thanks to an all-new aluminum engine which has been strengthened using forged connecting rods and crankshaft, and a semi-closed deck. The engine generates its power at 6500 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, allowing the car to accelerate to sixty miles per hour in 4.9 seconds as well. Vehicle Technology The two Japanese rally cars have their own special features that make them perform awesomely on the track. The WRX has a refined three-way adjustable center differential and the SI Drive, a new three-way throttle programming it adapted from the Legacy. The SI Drive system adjusts the system and the turbo boost according to the driving conditions. Its three settings, Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp can help the driver get more traction during slippery situations. The Evo has its Super All-Wheel Control, a four-wheel drive system that redistributes torque to where it’s needed. It also has Active Stability Control that uses the brakes decrease tire slipping, making the Evo easy to maneuver and handle and keeping it on track. Performance and Practicality According to the TopSpeed team, the Evo’s engine has sharper throttle control and responds quickly, while the WRX still needs to be revved up. However, the Evo’s five-speed manual isn’t good for the driving experience, whereas the WRX’s six-speed manual is perfect. In the looks department, the Evo takes the prize, but the WRX is definitely more practical because of the spacious cargo area. So which of the two Japanese rally cars did TopSpeed pick? The verdict In the end, the TopSpeed team chose the Subaru as the better car for daily driving—it’s got a spacious cabin and enough rear seat space for children. It also has a better transmission, greater power output, and overall better ride. The Mitsubishi can beat the WRX on track, but it can’t top the hatchback’s functionality—you won’t be racing every day, anyway. How about you? Which of the two Japanese rally cars will you go for and why?
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